Are you stuck doing everything in your business; marketing, IT, bookkeeping, AND the actual work? 😅

In this episode of The Hop Podcast, Matt chats with Jamin from Conetix about why small business owners need to stop wearing all the hats and start focusing on what really matters.

👉 We cover:

• Why doing it all yourself can actually hold you back

• The hidden costs and risks of DIY-ing your IT & marketing

• What you should outsource first (and what to keep in-house)

• How letting go gives you more control in the long run

• Key questions to ask your IT & hosting provider

If you’ve ever thought, “No one can do it better than me”… this episode will challenge that mindset and show you how to free up your time, reduce risk, and grow faster.

In this episode of The Hop Podcast, Matt Taylor-Farrington sits down with cybersecurity expert Martin von Stein from BizGuard to explore the complex and rapidly evolving relationship between artificial intelligence and business security. As AI tools become more integrated into everyday business operations, many are asking: are we handing over too much control and exposing sensitive data in the process? Martin breaks down the real risks behind AI-powered systems, how data is accessed (and potentially exploited), and why blind trust in tech tools can lead to serious consequences. Whether you’re just starting to explore AI or already using it in your workflows, this episode will help you stay smart and secure while scaling with technology.

Automation doesn’t have to be overwhelming, it just needs to be smart. Matthew Taylor-Farrington chats with Sam from Purple Bunny Marketing about practical ways small businesses can use automation to save time, streamline admin, and improve client experiences. From automated onboarding emails and chatbots to smart scheduling tools and follow-ups, Sam breaks down what business automation really means and how to start implementing it without overcomplicating things.

Matthew Taylor-Farrington is joined once again by Kira from River 94.9 to break down a real world client success story. Kira discusses how one business used a focused, high frequency radio campaign to grow their client base and expand their team all within a tight three month timeline.

Kira explains why clarity around goals, audience, and outcomes is essential to any campaign’s success. You’ll hear how knowing your objectives, committing to consistency, and aligning messaging with business goals can turn radio advertising into a true growth engine.

AI is everywhere but how can businesses actually use it in practical, meaningful ways? In this episode of The Hop Podcast, Matthew Taylor-Farrington speaks with Jamin Andrews from Conetix about the real-world applications of AI for small and medium-sized businesses. From using tools like ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot to streamline emails and scheduling, to implementing AI-powered call handling that mimics human interaction, Jamin shares how businesses are saving time, improving efficiency, and even reducing costs through smart AI integration.

Social media is becoming an increasingly hot target for cybercriminals and businesses need to be ready. Matthew Taylor-Farrington sits down with Martin von Stein from BizGuard to unpack why hackers are targeting social media, the biggest vulnerabilities business owners overlook, and the critical steps to strengthen your defences.

Martin shares practical advice on must-have security measures like multi-factor authentication (MFA), setting correct admin access levels, using real password managers (not spreadsheets or browser-based storage), and what to do if your account is hacked.

If you rely on social media to build your brand or run your business, this episode is essential listening. Stay protected and stay ahead!

Sports sponsorship goes far beyond logos on jerseys, it’s about building real connections between brands, teams, and communities. In this episode of The Hop, Matt Taylor-Farrington sits down with Richard Hughes, CEO of the TAE Aerospace Ipswich Jets, to explore what makes sports sponsorship such a powerful marketing tool. Richard shares insights on how businesses can maximise their sponsorships beyond game-day exposure, integrate with teams to create meaningful engagement. They also discuss the key factors that separate a one-off deal from a long-term, mutually beneficial partnership. If you’re a business owner or marketer looking to make an impact through sports, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!

Radio advertising is more powerful than ever, if you know how to use it right! In this episode of The Hop, Matt Taylor-Farrington sits down with Kira from River 94.9 to discuss how businesses can make the most of radio’s unique strengths.

They explore how brands can tap into the trust between radio hosts and their loyal listeners, the latest trends in listener habits, and the best times to place ads for maximum impact.

Plus, Kira shares insights on keeping ads fresh, using digital channels to amplify radio campaigns, and why radio is far from “old school” in today’s marketing landscape.

Whether you’re new to radio advertising or looking to refine your approach, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help your business connect with the right audience.